Written question asked by Colum Eastwood (Social Democratic & Labour Party) on Monday, 11 November 2024, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 14 November 2024 (named day). It was answered by Hilary Benn (Labour) on Thursday, 14 November 2024 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Culture and Languages: Northern Ireland

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he will make an assessment of the implications for his policies of the time taken to appoint commissioners under the Identity and Language (Northern Ireland) Act 2022.

Answer: The Northern Ireland Executive is responsible for implementing the provisions of the Identity and Language (Northern Ireland) Act 2022, including those provisions which allow for the establishment of an Irish Language Commissioner and a Commissioner for the Ulster Scots and the Ulster British tradition. In May 2023, the Government commenced the provisions in the Act required for the Executive Office to begin to progress work in relation to these appointments. The Government expects the Executive Office will make an announcement in due course regarding next steps on implementation of the legislation.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 13578
Session: 2024-26
Subjects: Irish language Irish Language Commissioner Commissioner for the Ulster Scots and the Ulster British Tradition
Legislation: Identity and Language (Northern Ireland) Act 2022
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk